Thai King Addresses New Cabinet to Serve Nation with Honest Hearts

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3 July 2025, 15:27

oath audience — Thailand's Acting Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit and his cabinet members to take their oath in front of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida at Ampornsan Throne Hall in Bangkok Thursday, July 3, 2025. (Bureau of the Royal Household)

BANGKOK — His Majesty the King addressed Thailand’s new Cabinet members on Thursday, urging them to serve the nation with “honest hearts and minds” and prioritize the country’s interests above all else.

On July 3, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn delivered a royal address to the new Cabinet members during their oath-taking ceremony at Dusit Palace as guidance for their duties, stating:

“On the occasion of the new Cabinet taking the oath of office before assuming their duties, I would like to express my appreciation for the intentions of all of you to work with the nation as the highest priority. All citizens desire happiness, security, and safety.

Those of you who have the responsibility to administer the country’s affairs for the welfare and happiness of the people have made the correct resolution to perform your duties to the best of your ability and have declared this commitment with firmness and strength. This will boost your own morale and strengthen the people’s confidence.

I therefore offer my support to all of you and ask that you perform your duties with knowledge, capability, and honest hearts and minds, to lead the nation toward sustainable prosperity and stability. May you all be blessed to perform your duties well and enjoy happiness and prosperity together.”

oath audience2 — His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen grant an audience to the Cabinet members taking the oath of office at Amphorn Sathan Throne Hall, Dusit Palace, on July 3, 2025.

During the oath-taking ceremony, His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen granted an audience at Amphorn Sathan Throne Hall for Mr. Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Deputy Prime Minister acting as caretaker Prime Minister, to lead the Cabinet members whom His Majesty graciously appointed to pay homage and take the oath of office before assuming their duties, as follows:

Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior
Mr. Suchart Tancharoen as Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office
Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol as Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation
Mr. Atthakorn Sirilatthayakorn as Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives
Mr. Jatuporn Buruspat as Minister of Commerce
Mr. Chantawich Tandasit as Deputy Minister of Commerce
Mr. Dech-it Khaothong as Deputy Minister of Interior
Mr. Phongkawin Jungrungreangkit as Minister of Labour
Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Minister of Culture (additional position)
Mrs. Narumon Pinyosinwat as Minister of Education
Ms. Linthiphorn Warinawacharoj as Deputy Minister of Education
Mr. Thewan Liptapallop as Deputy Minister of Education
Mr. Anucha Sasomsup as Deputy Minister of Public Health
Mr. Chaichana Detdecho as Deputy Minister of Public Health

AP25184095762995 — Thailand’s suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at Government House as she takes the oath of office as Minister of Culture in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 3, 2025.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Paetongtarn was suspended as Prime Minister on July 1 but joined this ceremony as Culture Minister. She had previously confirmed that holding this concurrent position was to push forward the soft power agenda, which is a key government policy.

The formation of the new cabinet comes at a time when the Pheu Thai Party, which she leads, is under high pressure following the withdrawal of the Bhumjaithai Party, formerly the second-largest party in the government coalition. Additionally, Paetongtarn was suspended from duty by the Constitutional Court during an ethics investigation over her remarks to senior Cambodian leader Hun Sen.

After the court order, Paetongtarn apologized to people upset over the leaked call but defended her actions, saying she had no malicious intent.

“My true intention, more than 100%, I did it for the nation, to preserve our sovereignty, to preserve the lives of the military, of all soldiers, for the peace that will come to our country,” she said.

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Siam Piwat Joins Forces with Global Partner Huawei to Attract High-Quality Tourists

By

MC Marketing

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3 July 2025, 15:17

Becoming the first and only Thai retail group to integrate the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card with Huawei’s global HarmonyOS operating system, this milestone connects to over 400 million devices across China—delivering seamless digital lifestyle experiences right at travelers’ fingertips.
Siam Piwat Group reinforces its leadership as a pioneer of global destinations through the power of Co-creation and Collaboration. By integrating innovation and technology, the company remains committed to delivering extraordinary experiences that go beyond expectations.
Expanding a powerful Global Partner Ecosystem by connecting a shared-value network worldwide. With exclusive privileges tailored for today’s travelers, the initiative delivers extraordinary experiences, attracts high-quality tourists, and supports sustainable economic growth.

As global competition in the tourism industry intensifies, Thailand faces increasing challenges—particularly as tourism remains a vital engine of the national economy. In response, and as part of the effort to sustainably drive Thai tourism forward and attract international visitors, Siam Piwat Group, a leading property and retail developer and operator of world-class destinations—Siam Paragon, Siam Center, Siam Discovery, and a joint venture partner of ICONSIAM, ICS, and Siam Premium Outlets Bangkok—has joined forces in a major global collaboration with Huawei, one of the world’s leading technology giants.

This groundbreaking partnership marks a significant milestone in both the retail and tourism sectors with the launch of the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card via Quick App on Huawei’s HarmonyOS, which reaches over 400 million smartphone devices across China. The initiative is designed to deliver a premium travel and lifestyle experience tailored for Huawei users—particularly high-spending, quality tourists—further reinforcing Siam Piwat’s role as a global destination pioneer. This collaboration not only elevates Thailand’s retail industry but also contributes meaningfully to driving sustainable growth in the country’s tourism and economy.

Siam Piwat becomes the first and only Thai retail group to integrate with Huawei’s global HarmonyOS operating system. Huawei smartphone users can instantly register for the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card and access exclusive privileges from a Global Partner Ecosystem of over 150 brands. Serving as a “digital master key,” the card unlocks curated benefits across every stage of the travel journey—pre-trip, during-trip, and post-trip. These privileges span lifestyle, transportation, shopping, finance, wellness, and personalized services, with a focus on Chinese FITs (Free Independent Travelers)—a high-potential segment with strong purchasing power. Through this innovation, ONESIAM Global delivers extraordinary experiences that elevate every journey into something truly memorable and beyond expectations.

Mrs. Amporn Chotirasakul, President – Business Support, Siam Piwat Co., Ltd., stated:

This marks another significant step forward for Siam Piwat in advancing our long-standing strategy of ‘Co-Creation & Collaboration to Win.’ By partnering with a global leader like Huawei, we are building upon our shared commitment to creating shared value—driving digital strategy and establishing a global partner ecosystem designed to deliver world-class experiences that truly meet every touchpoint in the journey of quality travelers, especially Chinese FITs, a segment recognized for their distinctive lifestyle, strong purchasing power, and unique spending behaviors. The ONESIAM Global Visitor Card is tailored to meet their needs with a wide range of targeted privileges and services. This not only strengthens Thailand’s position as a preferred destination but also contributes to sustainable growth in the Thai economy.”

This collaboration enables Siam Piwat to integrate its extensive global partner ecosystem under the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card with Huawei’s Quick App, paving the way for joint development of personalized marketing campaigns that deliver highly relevant experiences and foster long-term engagement with customers. In parallel, a comprehensive communication strategy is being deployed across multiple media channels to build awareness, position Thailand prominently on the tourism radar, and further elevate the country’s retail and tourism experience—ultimately helping drive sustainable growth for both the tourism industry and the broader economy.

Zhao Ye, Head of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships, APAC Region, Consumer Business Group, stated:

Siam Piwat Group has a clear vision of delivering world-class experiences. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in bringing HarmonyOS into real-life applications—particularly for Chinese tourists seeking premium, convenient, and uniquely tailored experiences through the seamless integration of data, technology, and content.

Our goal is to elevate the travel experience for a new generation of travelers who value personalized lifestyles—an audience that aligns perfectly with the shared vision of both Huawei and Siam Piwat Group.”

Huawei will leverage Quick App, Petal Ads, and Skytone—its cross-border internet service integrated within the HarmonyOS operating system—to support Siam Piwat’s marketing strategy and enhance engagement with Chinese tourists. These services will offer travelers tourism information, digital coupons, and emergency assistance throughout their journey. Additionally, Thai tourists visiting China will benefit from exclusive privileges, including payment and shopping advantages. The initiative will be promoted through media channels in China, Malaysia, and other key markets across the region.

ONESIAM Global Partner Ecosystem Delivers Tailored Privileges, Accelerating the Influx of Chinese FITs to Thailand.

Behind the success of this collaboration is the strength of the ONESIAM Global Partner Ecosystem—a global network of over 150 partners integrated into the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card. These partners play a vital role in driving Thailand’s economy and enriching the travel experience, helping to position the country as a premier global destination. Spanning diverse sectors—including tourism, airlines, hotels, attractions, restaurants, transportation, travel agents, health and wellness, telecommunications, finance, shopping and lifestyle—this alliance works in unison to create a seamless, elevated journey for international travelers.

One of the key public sector partners, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), represented by Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of TAT, stated:

“Siam Piwat serves as a model for effective public-private collaboration, playing a vital role in elevating Thailand’s tourism industry through innovation and creativity that support quality tourism. Its continued alliance with global partners has delivered tangible, positive impacts on Thailand’s tourism economy.”

A key strategy to stimulate travel among Chinese premium Huawei smartphone users—is the expansion of strategic partnerships that offer exclusive, lifestyle-driven privileges. For instance, Thai Airways enhances convenience from the very start of the journey with seamless connectivity and warm Thai hospitality. Kempinski Hotels elevates the stay with premium perks, Grab makes in-country travel effortless for smooth, app-based rides. Merlin Entertainments (SEA LIFE Bangkok) and Meridian Cruise add excitement to every itinerary with extraordinary offers.

Shoppers can enjoy special promotions from beloved Thai brands such as Mistine, a popular cosmetics brand celebrated for its wide range of affordable beauty innovations, and Jim Thompson, the globally renowned name that has elevated Thai silk into a symbol of elegance and heritage. Also included is Dear Tummy, a premium lifestyle supermarket favored by Chinese tourists for its curated selection of gourmet and health-conscious products. The journey is further enriched by ICONCRAFT, an inspiration platform for Thai artisanal craftsmanship showcasing works by master craftsmen and new-generation creators from across Thailand, along with discounts on traditional Thai dining and massage experiences at SOOKSIAM—offering a truly immersive taste of Thai culture and hospitality.

“We have always been committed to developing a ‘Global Destination’ that captures the hearts and minds of people around the world—not just as a place, but as a platform for delivering truly distinctive and extraordinary experiences. We will continue to move forward with the strength of visionary partnerships, working together to elevate Thailand’s travel and tourism landscape while building a foundation for resilient and sustainable economic growth,” Mrs. Amporn concluded.

#SiamPiwat #SiamParagon #SiamCenter #SiamDiscovery #ICONSIAM #SiamPremiumOutletsBangkok #ICS #Huawei #HarmonyOS #ONESIAM #ONESIAMGlobal #ONESIAMGlobalVisitorCard #ONESIAMexperience #TouristCard #Bangkok #Retail #Thailand

B.Grimm Pharma presented a donation of medicines worth 1,000,000 baht to Siriraj Hospital

By

Contributor

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3 July 2025, 15:15

B.Grimm Pharma, led by Mr. Panya Kitcharoenkankul, Head of B.Grimm Pharma, together with the executive team, presented a donation of medicines worth 1,000,000 baht to Siriraj Hospital to support the treatment of patients with respiratory conditions. The donation was graciously received by Professor Dr. Yongyuth Sirivatcharaporn, Director of Siriraj Hospital.

This contribution reflects B.GRIMM Pharma’s commitment to expanding public access to high-quality healthcare products and strengthening Thailand’s public health system in pursuit of a healthier society

Thai Man Dies After Recording Himself Playing with Cobra in Hotel

By

Khaosod English

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3 July 2025, 14:11

KHON KAEN — A 28-year-old man from Chiang Rai province died after being bitten by a cobra he had been filming himself playing with at a hotel in Khon Kaen’s Chum Phae district in the early hours of Thursday.

Police from Chum Phae Station in northeastern Thailand’s Khon Kaen province investigated the death of Suprachya Sangratcha, 28, whose body was found on a bed in a ground-floor hotel room in Chum Phae municipality after midnight.

The victim, originally from Village 16, Pa-o Don Chai subdistrict in Chiang Rai’s Mueang district, was found wearing a T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. Investigators discovered bite marks resembling those from a venomous snake on his right upper arm.

cobra khonkaen1 — Police inspect the body of the 28-year-old man on a bed in his hotel room in Chum Phae municipality, Khon Kaen Province in the early hours of July 3, 2025.

There were no signs of struggle in the room, the door was locked from inside, and lights were left on. Near the entrance, police found a white cloth bag tied shut containing a live cobra.

Police Colonel Rakchart Ruengcharoen, chief of Chum Phae Police Station, said video clips found on the victim’s mobile phone showed him handling and playing with the cobra at close range. Investigators believe Suprachya died from the cobra bite while keeping the snake.

Medical staff from Chum Phae Hospital conducted a preliminary autopsy to confirm the cause of death.

cobra khonkaen3 — A video on the victim’s damaged mobile phone shows the 28-year-old man handling and playing with a cobra at close range.

Cobras are highly adaptable and can be found in urban communities across Thailand. The monocled cobra (N. kaouthia) is most frequently encountered, followed by the Siamese spitting cobra (N. siamensis) and the golden spitting cobra (N. samarensis).

Cobra venom contains powerful neurotoxins that can cause death, while spitting cobras can cause blindness if venom contacts the eyes. The danger of cobras has been illustrated since ancient times, including in Aesop’s fable “The Farmer and the Viper.”

In Thai politics, the term “cobra” is used to describe MPs who defect from their original parties to join opposing sides in exchange for benefit.

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Thailand GDP Growth Slows to 1.8% as Digital Sector Offers Hope

By

Khaosod English

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3 July 2025, 13:14

world bank thai — Thailand Economic Monitor: Digital Pathways to Growth report

BANGKOK — Thailand’s economic expansion is projected to moderate significantly this year, with gross domestic product growth slowing to 1.8% in 2025 and further declining to 1.7% in 2026, the World Bank warned in its Thailand Economic Monitor: Digital Pathways to Growth report released today.

The economic slowdown stems from multiple headwinds including shifting global trade patterns, weakening export performance, subdued consumer spending, and a gradual recovery in the tourism sector. However, the report suggests that improved investment confidence could potentially lift GDP growth to 2.2% this year and 1.8% next year.

Economy Remains Resilient Despite Global Challenges

“Despite challenges in the global economy, Thailand’s economy stayed strong in early 2025, helped by early exports amid trade uncertainties,” said Kiatpong Ariyapracha, Senior Economist at the World Bank’s Thailand office. He emphasized that maintaining economic stability, enhancing public investments, and expanding trade partnerships will be crucial for Thailand to navigate evolving market conditions.

The World Bank report identifies digital transformation as a critical catalyst for sustaining growth, generating employment opportunities, and improving service delivery during this period of economic uncertainty.

Digital Economy Emerges as Growth Engine

Thailand’s digital economy has emerged as a significant contributor to national output, representing approximately 6% of GDP and ranking as the second-largest digital economy in Southeast Asia. The sector has demonstrated remarkable job creation potential, with financial services, digital payments, fintech, software development, and engineering experiencing the most rapid employment growth over the past decade.

The country has achieved near-universal mobile internet penetration, supported by robust digital infrastructure. Government initiatives such as ThaID and PromptPay have successfully expanded financial inclusion, enhanced government service delivery, and fueled e-commerce growth, which has maintained an average annual growth rate of 10% since the COVID-19 pandemic.

World Bank Meetings to Spotlight Digital Future

Melinda Good, World Bank Country Director for Thailand and Myanmar, highlighted the upcoming significance of Thailand hosting the World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in 2026. “This event is a great chance to highlight the future of important industries like digital services, green manufacturing, agriculture, and sustainable tourism,” she noted, with digital transformation expected to be a central theme.

Policy Recommendations for Digital Acceleration

“Digital technology opens new markets, boosts competitiveness, and supports economic diversification,” explained Ji-eun Choi, Senior Digital Economist at the World Bank. “To unlock this potential, Thailand needs better data, stronger infrastructure, and more digital skills.”

The report outlines comprehensive policy recommendations to accelerate digital adoption across all economic sectors, from small and medium enterprises and e-commerce platforms to healthcare and financial services. The World Bank calls for coordinated efforts to expand broadband infrastructure, strengthen data privacy protections, and foster innovation ecosystems.

The economic outlook underscores Thailand’s need to leverage digital transformation as a strategic tool for maintaining competitiveness and resilience in an increasingly complex global economic environment.

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Thailand’s New Cabinet Members Take Oaths, Including Suspended PM

By

Associated Press

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3 July 2025, 12:43

Thailand Politics — Thailand’s suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives at Government House as she takes the oath of office as Minister of Culture in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 3, 2025.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s new Cabinet members took their oaths of office Thursday, including the suspended prime minister who is under an ethics investigation for her remarks to a senior Cambodian leader.

Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended as prime minister Tuesday, the same day Thailand’s king endorsed a Cabinet lineup in which she would be the culture minister.

Paetongtarn was smiling as she arrived at Government House for the swearing-in ceremony with other new members, but did not answer questions.

Acting Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit led the new Cabinet members at the ceremony to receive the endorsement from King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

AP25184111922800 — Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Suriya Jungrungruangkit, fourth, from left leaves Government House with his new cabinet to take new cabinet oath in front of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 3, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

AP25184111808269 — Thailand’s suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra leaves Government House, to take the oath of office as Minister of Culture in front of Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida at Ampornsan Throne Hall in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, July 3, 2025.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

Suriya is expected later to assign the acting prime minister duty to Phumtham Wechayachai, who was sworn in Thursday as deputy prime minister and interior minister. Phumtham had been deputy prime minister and defense minister since Paetongtarn took office last year.

Paetongtarn has faced growing dissatisfaction over her handling of a border dispute with Cambodia, including an armed confrontation in May in which a Cambodian soldier was killed.

In a leaked phone call with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen, she attempted to defuse tensions — but instead set off a string of complaints and public protests. Critics said she went to far in appeasing Hun Sen and damaged Thailand’s image and reputation.

The Constitutional Court voted unanimously Tuesday to review a petition accusing her of a breach of the ethics, and voted 7-2 to immediately suspend her until it issues its ruling. The court gave Paetongtarn 15 days to give evidence to support her case. It’s unclear when it will rule.

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Thai Car Market Under Pressure as Dealers Close and Switch Brands

By

Khaosod English

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3 July 2025, 12:03

benz star flag — Benz Star Flag is no longer an official sales or service centre for Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) as of July 1, 2025.

BANGKOK — Thai car market struggles with dealer closures or brand changes Economic and political headwinds are weighing heavily on Thailand’s car market. The Kasikorn Research Centre reports that more than 50 car dealerships are set to close this year.

Car Production Unlikely to Hit Target

Surapong Paisitpatanapong, spokesman for the Automotive Industry Group of the Confederation of Thai Industry, told Prachachat Business that several factors, particularly the general economic situation and possible Trump-era tariffs, could affect the competitiveness of the Thai automotive industry in the global market.

As a result, he believes that Thailand’s vehicle production target of 1.5 million units for 2025 is likely to be revised downwards. This original target included 1 million units for export and 500,000 for domestic sales.

“In the first five months of the year, production totalled 594,492 units, a decrease of 7.83%. It is clear that we will not reach 1.5 million units this year,” he said.

motor show2025 2 — Bangkok International Motor Show press day is held at Impact Muang Thong Thani on March 24, 2025. The event runs from March 26 until April 3, 2025. (KHAOSOD/Yingyos Akmanachai)

While there was an increase in production in May, 139,186 units, up 10%, the first increase in 21 months, this growth was mainly driven by battery electric vehicles (BEVs), up 641.16%, and plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), up 130.49%.

This reflects the growing demand in the market and the fact that electric vehicle manufacturers have started to produce vehicles under government incentive programmes.

Dealers Burdened by High Costs

The Kasikorn Research Centre estimates that car sales will fall to 565,000 units in 2025, causing total dealer revenues to shrink by 5.6%. The car dealership business continues to be under pressure from declining new car sales and increased market competition.

Added to this are rising costs due to unsold stock and high interest rates. Dealers are forced to adapt, some are shifting to pure sales offices without stock, increasing their service turnover or switching to representing Chinese car brands.

50 Showrooms to Close, Chinese Brands Expand

Due to declining sales and increasing competition, Kasikorn Research estimates that the number of car dealerships will fall from 2,197 in 2024 to around 2,146 in 2025, a loss of 50 showrooms. Japanese and Western brands are expected to see the sharpest decline, particularly in sales of internal combustion engines and commercial vehicles.

Meanwhile, Chinese car manufacturers could continue to expand, especially in the xEV segment. PHEVs and BEVs, which are mainly sold by Chinese brands, are becoming increasingly popular. However, the growth of car dealerships of Chinese brands is also slowing down.

In 2024, there were 2,197 showrooms: 1,660 from Japanese and Western brands and 537 from Chinese brands. By 2025, the total number is expected to drop to 2,146, with the number of Japanese and Western car showrooms falling to 1,566 and the number of Chinese showrooms rising to 580.

Price Wars and Dealer Shake-ups

Prachachat Business also reports that Chinese brands in Thailand have their own challenges. A clear example of this is NETA, an EV brand whose parent company is struggling with liquidity issues that have also impacted its Thai operations. These include unpaid debts to local dealers and a shortage of spare parts.

NETA dealers are now rushing to clear unsold stock, leave the network or switch to other brands. The number of NETA dealers has fallen from over 60 to around 20.
Other dealers are also switching brands, either from Japanese to Chinese or from one Chinese brand to another.

Benz Dealers Close or Change Brands

Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) has informed its customers that the Benz Star Flag Co, Ltd, dealership, which has been in operation since 2013, will no longer function as an official sales or service centre from July 1, 2025. Customers are advised to visit other authorised dealerships instead.

Similarly, Benz Metro Autohaus has ended its affiliation with Mercedes-Benz. Managing Director Burin Boonvisut explained that the company will become a dealer for a new Chinese brand that has not yet been launched in Thailand. Details remain confidential for now.

According to sources at Mercedes-Benz Thailand, these exits were mutual decisions. The company assured that customers of the two departing dealers will continue to be fully serviced and that the brand will continue its service in the remaining 31 showrooms across the country (15 in Bangkok and 16 in other provinces).

Mixed Forecasts from Japanese Automakers

Supakorn Rattanawaraha, Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Thailand, expected a gradual recovery in the car market this year and a 5% increase in total sales to 600,000 units. Toyota is aiming for sales of 231,000 vehicles, which also represents an increase of 5%, giving it a market share of 38.5%.

Wallop Trirerkngam, Vice Chairman of Suzuki Motor (Thailand), forecasts sales of 545,000–570,000 units in 2025, a decline of around 5% compared to 2024. He attributes this decline to weakening consumer purchasing power and dwindling investor confidence due to general economic uncertainty and political instability.

Toyota 2025 — Toyota showcases new vehicles at the 46th Bangkok International Motor Show (Motor Show 2025), March 24-31.

In response, Japanese car manufacturers are stepping up their after-sales services. Toyota, for example, has launched the “Toyota Trusted Services” campaign in over 450 service centres and 250 body and paint shops across the country.

Suzuki is also working to retain dealers attracted by Chinese competition. Wallop Trirerkngam said Suzuki is expanding its service and spare parts network to ensure standardised service at all locations. This year, Suzuki opened a new service centre in Don Chan, Chiang Mai, and plans to expand its service network to 95 centres nationwide to give customers wider and faster access.

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Analysis Shows Trump’s Tariffs Would Cost US Employers $82.3 Billion

By

Associated Press

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2 July 2025, 23:22

WASHINGTON (AP) — An analysis finds a critical group of U.S. employers would face a direct cost of $82.3 billion from President Donald Trump’s current tariff plans, a sum that could potentially be managed through price hikes, layoffs, hiring freezes or lower profit margins.

The analysis by the JPMorganChase Institute is among the first to measure the direct costs created by the import taxes on businesses with $10 million to $1 billion in annual revenue, a category including roughly a third of private-sector U.S. workers. These companies are more dependent than other businesses on imports from China, India and Thailand — and the retail and wholesale sectors would be especially vulnerable to the import taxes being levied by the Republican president.

The findings show clear trade-offs from Trump’s import taxes, contradicting his claims foreign manufacturers would absorb the costs of the tariffs instead of U.S. companies that rely on imports. While the tariffs launched under Trump have yet to boost overall inflation, large companies such as Amazon, Costco, Walmart and Williams-Sonoma delayed the potential reckoning by building up their inventories before the taxes could be imposed.

The analysis comes just ahead of the July 9 deadline by Trump to formally set the tariff rates on goods from dozens of countries. Trump imposed that deadline after the financial markets panicked in response to his April tariff announcements, prompting him to schedule a 90-day negotiating period when most imports faced a 10% baseline tariff. China, Mexico and Canada face higher rates, and there are separate 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum.

Had the initial April 2 tariffs stayed in place, the companies in the JPMorganChase Institute analysis would’ve faced additional direct costs of $187.6 billion. Under the current rates, the $82.3 billion would be equivalent on average to $2,080 per employee, or 3.1% of the average annual payroll. Those averages include firms that don’t import goods and those that do.

Asked Tuesday how trade talks are faring, Trump said simply: “Everything’s going well.”

The president has indicated he’ll set tariff rates given the logistical challenge of negotiating with so many nations. As the 90-day period comes to a close, only the United Kingdom has signed a trade framework with the Trump administration. Trump announced Wednesday he’d reached a deal with Vietnam, while India has signaled it’s close to agreeing on a trade framework.

Trump said on his social media site Vietnam will pay the U.S. a 20% tariff on all goods sent “into our Territory” and a 40% tariff on any transshipping, which usually means exports that come from China but pass through Vietnam to dodge tariffs on Chinese goods.

AP25172075974812 — FILE – President Donald Trump speaks during an event to announce new tariffs in the Rose Garden at the White House, on April 2, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, File)

In return, Vietnam will grant the U.S. “TOTAL ACCESS” to its market for trade, Trump said, meaning “we will be able to sell our product into Vietnam at ZERO Tariff.” He added he thinks SUVs “will be a wonderful addition to the various product lines within Vietnam.”

There’s a growing body of evidence suggesting more inflation could surface. The investment bank Goldman Sachs said in a report it expects companies to pass 60% of their tariff costs onto consumers. The Atlanta Federal Reserve has used its survey of businesses’ inflation expectations to say companies could on average pass along roughly half their costs from a 10% tariff or a 25% tariff without reducing consumer demand.

The JPMorganChase Institute findings suggest the tariffs could cause some domestic manufacturers to strengthen their roles as suppliers of goods. But it noted companies need to plan for a range of possible outcomes and wholesalers and retailers already operate on such low profit margins they might need to spread the tariffs’ costs to their customers.

The outlook for tariffs remains highly uncertain. Trump had stopped negotiations with Canada, only to restart them after the country dropped its plan to tax digital services. He similarly on Monday threatened more tariffs on Japan unless it buys more rice from the U.S.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends” on Tuesday the concessions from the trade talks have impressed career officials at the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and other agencies.

The treasury secretary said the Trump administration plans to discuss the contours of trade deals next week, prioritizing the tax cuts package passed on Tuesday by the Republican majority in the Senate. Trump has set a Friday deadline for passage of the multitrillion-dollar package, the costs of which the president hopes to offset with tariff revenues.

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Austrian Tourist Dies in Drunken Fall at Koh Samui Hotel

By

Khaosod English

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2 July 2025, 20:27

KOH SAMUI — An Austrian tourist who had been drinking heavily every night died after falling down hotel stairs and suffering fatal head injuries on Koh Samui island early Wednesday morning.

Police at Bo Phut Station received a report at 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday about a foreign national found dead at a hotel located on Beach Road in Bo Phut sub-district, Koh Samui district, Surat Thani province.

The deceased was identified as Mario, a 45-year-old Austrian national. His body was found lying face-up on the concrete floor of the third-floor stairway leading to his room (236), with head injuries near his left eyebrow. No signs of disturbance were found inside his hotel room.

austria fall 2 — CCTV footage shows the Austrian tourist moments before he fell down the stairs and died at a hotel on Koh Samui on July 2, 2025.

According to the person who discovered the body, hotel staff had come to another guest’s room to help with luggage when they found the deceased lying face-down with blood visible. They immediately called for an ambulance, but paramedics confirmed the man had already died.

CCTV footage revealed the victim walking alone to the incident location in an intoxicated state before attempting to climb the stairs and subsequently falling, with his head striking the concrete floor.

The hotel manager stated that the tourist was observed drinking alcohol daily, including on the night of the incident. “We’re not surprised by the cause of death, but we never expected he would meet such an accident,” the manager said.

Police investigators conducted an autopsy with the on-duty physician at Koh Samui Hospital and contacted the Austrian Embassy to notify the victim’s relatives of the tragic incident.

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Thai Immigration Refutes British Woman’s Forced Drug Trafficking Claims

By

Khaosod English

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2 July 2025, 18:51

BANGKOK — Thai immigration authorities have categorically denied allegations made by a British teenager who claimed she was tortured and forced to smuggle drugs from Thailand, showing airport surveillance footage that contradicts her testimony.

Police Lieutenant General Choengron Rimpadee, Commissioner of Immigration Bureau 2, responded on July 2 to international media reports about Ms. Bella May Culley, a 19-year-old British suspect facing drug trafficking charges in Georgia. Culley had told a Tbilisi court that she was coerced into carrying drugs from Thailand and made accusations against Thai officials’ conduct.

“There is absolutely no factual basis to her claims,” Lt. Gen. Choengron stated, presenting CCTV footage showing Culley walking normally through passport control at Suvarnabhumi Airport.

According to Thai immigration records, the British suspect departed Thailand on May 10, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. via Air Arabia flight G9822 to Sharjah, UAE, with the aircraft departing at 8:55 a.m.

bella culley3 — 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish found in Bella Cullen’s travel bag (Image: Georgia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs)

CCTV footage review revealed that Culley passed through the automated passport control (ABC) channel normally, without requesting any assistance from officials. “There is no evidence whatsoever that any immigration or police officers forced or threatened the suspect to smuggle drugs out of the country,” Lt. Gen. Choengron emphasized.

The immigration chief believes the British woman’s allegations are intended to mitigate her sentence. Thai authorities will now register her in the immigration system as a prohibited person due to credible evidence of involvement in drug trafficking activities.

Lt. Gen. Choengron noted that airport immigration prioritizes supporting the interception of travelers who violate laws in all forms, both arrivals and departures, in coordination with relevant agencies including Customs and the Office of Narcotics Control Board. Since the beginning of this year, authorities have supported 10 drug seizure arrests in cooperation with outbound customs.

Background from Georgian Court Proceedings:

According to British media reports, Bella Culley appeared at Tbilisi City Court on July 1 pleading not guilty to charges of possessing and trafficking large quantities of illegal drugs. She showed the court a scar on her wrist allegedly inflicted in Thailand before being given a suitcase containing drugs, which was seized at Tbilisi airport.

bella culley2 — Bella May Culley (Facebook)

Culley claimed she was unaware of the suitcase’s contents, with her lawyers arguing it was “impossible” she committed the crime and that she had been set up by unknown individuals in Thailand.

The university student, who was studying to become a nurse, had arrived in Thailand from the Philippines before disappearing on May 10, leaving family members without contact.

“I didn’t want to do this. I was forced by torture. I just wanted to travel,” Culley told the court, adding that she was “clean” with nothing detected in blood tests.

Her lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, claimed she was threatened with a hot iron to force her compliance and that when she approached a policeman for help, he was allegedly part of the criminal group.

Culley was detained for 52 days while prosecutors investigated the origins of 12kg of marijuana and 2kg of hashish found in her travel bag. Judge Lela Kalichenko denied bail, with the next hearing scheduled for July 10.

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